"I thought we played well defensively," Illinois coach Brad Underwood said. "That's usually good enough to win, but we had some inconsistencies on offense."

Michigan led 39-34 at the half. Illinois pulled within five points at 49-44 with 13:30 left on Aaron Jordan's 3- pointer, but it was the closest the Illini could come, thanks to Michigan's offense and smothering defense.

Underwood drew a technical foul late in the first half when he became angry protesting a possession call and threw his suit jacket into the crowd. Illinois responded with two 3-pointers by Dosunmu to close the half.

MICHIGAN TURNOVERS

The Wolverines had 11 turnovers in the first half.

"Our flow the first half was not good, mainly because of the high number of turnovers," Beilein said. "We adjusted and didn't turn the ball over much in the second half, which allowed us to get our shots and set our defense."

Simpson said turnovers were a main topic in the locker room at the half.

"Coach got on us about it," he said, "I think we had 11 in the first half, but we cleaned it up after that. It's important to be disciplined."

Michigan only turned the ball over three times in the second half. Both teams finished with 14 turnovers.

UNDER PRESSURE?

"It's hard to be undefeated," Simpson said. "I mean, we want to keep going. I'd say we're happy but not satisfied, if that makes sense."

It does.

BIG PICTURE

Michigan is tied with Michigan State for the Big Ten lead.

Illinois continues its woes against top teams, going 0-14 overall against Top 25 teams. The Illini's last win over a top team was a 68-66 victory over then-No. 20 Iowa on March 10, 2016.

UP NEXT

Michigan: Hosts Northwestern on Sunday.

Illinois: Hosts Minnesota on Wednesday night.

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